Comparative Effectiveness of Therapies for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders

Background: Autism Spectrum Disorders — Treatment

Treatment is frequently complicated by emergent symptoms such as irritability and other comorbid conditions that may warrant targeted treatment. Chronic management is often required to maximize functional independence and quality of life. Goals of ASD therapy include: minimizing the core deficits in social skills and communication, facilitating development and learning, promoting socialization, and reducing maladaptive behaviors. Educating and supporting families is also a primary concern of treatment plans for children with ASDs. Individual goals for treatment vary for different children and may include combinations of medical and related therapies, behavioral therapies, educational therapies, allied health therapies, and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies.